Pattern JV pops cork in Japan

Pattern Energy Group and Green Power Investment Corp have completed the 42MW Futtsu solar facility in Chiba prefecture in Japan.

GPI was the construction manager and will also manage Futtsu’s ongoing operations.

Kyocera Solar supplied the solar panels for the project, with Kyocera Communication Systems providing ongoing operations and maintenance services.

The facility has a 20-year power purchase agreement with Tokyo Electric Power for all of the electricity generated.

Pattern and GPI are joint venture partners on the project, while GE Energy Financial Services has an ownership stake.

A syndicate of four banks, led by The Bank of Tokyo Mitsubishi UFJ, provided additional finance for the project.

Pattern Development president and chief executive officer Mike Garland said: “Futtsu Solar is our first project in Japan to reach commercial operation following our investment and partnership with GPI.

“After announcing our expansion into Japan just over a year ago, we are making strong progress with another solar project that is nearing completion and a wind project under construction.”

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